CN107042786B

CN107042786B - Vehicle lighting system following user

Info

Publication number: CN107042786B
Application number: CN201611272964.7A
Authority: CN
Inventors: M·E·德卡卢维; C·W·维尔博恩; T·R·布朗; C·库姆勒; D·鲁德
Original assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
Current assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
Priority date: 2015-11-04
Filing date: 2016-11-04
Publication date: 2020-06-16
Anticipated expiration: 2036-11-04
Also published as: US9821707B2; US20170120802A1; CN107042786A; DE102016121071A1

Abstract

The invention discloses a vehicle lighting system following a user. A vehicle light system focused on a user location includes a hardware-based processing unit and a non-transitory computer-readable storage device having a user location determination module that, when executed by the processing unit, determines a vehicle user location proximate to a vehicle. The memory device also includes a vehicle light identification module that, when executed by the processing unit, determines which of the plurality of vehicle light components should be illuminated to produce a currently selected light component based on the vehicle user location. The storage device also includes a vehicle light activation module configured to, when executed by the processing unit, send a signal to a currently selected light component to illuminate the currently selected light component. In various embodiments, the invention includes a storage device separate from the processing unit, and methods implemented by the system.

Description

Vehicle lighting system following user

Technical Field

The present invention relates generally to systems and methods for illuminating an exterior area near a vehicle, and more particularly, to systems and methods for selectively illuminating the area based on user motion around the vehicle for benefits including user safety, comfort, and convenience.

Background

Modern vehicles have many electronic components that improve convenience and safety. One example is a light fixture positioned adjacent an exterior or interior door handle. Exterior door handle lights are typically illuminated in response to a user unlocking the vehicle via a key fob (keyfob). When the vehicle is parked and turned off, the interior door handle lights illuminate to help the user find the handle to exit.

Other example conventional lighting systems include overhead or floor interior lighting that is illuminated whenever a door is opened, and trunk or trunk area lighting that is illuminated when a vehicle or trunk or tailgate is opened.

While these lighting devices have helped the use and safety of vehicles, there is an opportunity to use external lighting to improve user safety and convenience.

Disclosure of Invention

The system and method of the present disclosure controls the provision of exterior lights around a vehicle based on the movement of a user. In various embodiments, the user has a device carried by the user with the user for measuring the position of the user relative to the vehicle.

In the case of having a device carried by the user, the function is first triggered by the vehicle sensing the presence of the device carried by the user (such as a key fob, a mobile phone, or a wearable device like a smart watch).

The vehicle has a sensor that tracks user movement in the vicinity of the vehicle. For sensing, the system can include one or more sensors that sense the location of the user, such as an image-based sensor (e.g., a camera) and/or a laser sensor.

As another example, for sensing, the system can include one or more sensors that sense the location of a device carried by the user, such as sensors using Radio Frequency Identification (RFID).

The present invention improves safety, convenience, and comfort by providing lighting near the vehicle where the user is moving, thereby illuminating the user's path and environment that is visible to the user.

Other aspects of the invention will be in part apparent and in part pointed out hereinafter.

Scheme 1: a vehicle light system focused on a user location, comprising:

a hardware-based processing unit; and

a non-transitory computer-readable storage device, comprising:

a user location determination module that, when executed by the processing unit, determines a vehicle user location proximate to a vehicle;

a vehicle light identification module that, when executed by the processing unit, determines which of a plurality of vehicle light components should be illuminated based on the vehicle user location, thereby producing a currently selected light component; and

a vehicle light activation module configured to, when executed by the processing unit, send a signal to the currently selected light component to illuminate the currently selected light component.

Scheme 2: the user location focused vehicle light system of claim 1, comprising the plurality of vehicle light components configured to be selectively activated in response to the signal from the processor executing the vehicle light activation module.

Scheme 3: the vehicle light system focused on user location according to claim 1, comprising a user proximity sensor configured and arranged at a vehicle for sensing the presence of a vehicle user in proximity to the vehicle, wherein the processing unit executes the user location determination module for determining a vehicle user location in proximity to a vehicle by implementing the processing unit using or in response to an output from the user proximity sensor.

Scheme 4: the user location focused vehicle light system of claim 1 comprising a user location sensor configured and arranged at the vehicle to sense a location of a vehicle user relative to the vehicle, wherein the user location determination module is implemented using an output of the user location sensor, the user location determination module executing the processing unit to determine a vehicle user location proximate to the vehicle.

Scheme 5: the vehicle light system focused on a user position according to the claim 1, wherein:

the vehicle user location is a first vehicle user location; and

the module is configured such that the module functions are repeated to determine an updated selected light component corresponding to the determined second vehicle user location as or after the user moves from the first location.

Scheme 6: the vehicle light system focused on the user position according to scheme 1, wherein the user position determination module is configured to receive a signal from a device carried by the user when determining the vehicle user position near the vehicle.

Scheme 7: the vehicle light system focused on the user position according to scheme 1, wherein the user position determination module is configured to receive a signal from a device carried by the user when the proximity sensor is used to determine that the user is near the vehicle.

Scheme 8: the vehicle light system focused on the user position according to scheme 7, wherein the device carried by the user is a key fob, a user wearable device, or other user mobile communication device.

Scheme 9: the user position focused vehicle light system of claim 1, wherein the non-transitory computer readable storage device comprises:

a user proximity determination module configured to, when executed by the processing unit, determine that a user is proximate to a vehicle using a proximity sensor;

wherein the user location determination module, when executed by the processing unit, determines a vehicle user location in response to the user proximity determination module determining that a vehicle user is proximate.

Scheme 10: the vehicle light system focused on the user location according to claim 1, wherein the currently selected light component comprises one or both of an interior vehicle light and an exterior vehicle light.

Scheme 11: the vehicle light system focusing on user location according to claim 1, wherein in case of determining which one of a plurality of vehicle light components should be illuminated when executed by the processing unit, the vehicle light identification module determines for the currently selected light component at least one option selected from the group of options consisting of:

one of a plurality of brightness options for the light component;

one of a plurality of color options for the light component; and

one of a plurality of dimming function options for the light component.

Scheme 12: a non-transitory computer readable storage device for use at a vehicle light system focused on a user location, comprising:

a user location determination module that, when executed by the processing unit, determines a vehicle user location proximate to the vehicle;

Scheme 13: the non-transitory computer-readable storage device of claim 12, wherein:

the vehicle user location is a first vehicle user location; and

Scheme 14: the non-transitory computer-readable storage device of claim 12, wherein the user location determination module is configured to receive a signal from a device carried by a user when determining a vehicle user location proximate to the vehicle.

Scheme 15: the non-transitory computer-readable storage device of claim 12, wherein the user location determination module is configured to receive a signal from a device carried by a user when the user is determined to be near the vehicle using a proximity sensor.

Scheme 16: the non-transitory computer readable storage device of claim 12, comprising:

wherein the user location determination module, when executed by the processing unit, determines the vehicle user location in response to the user proximity determination module determining that a vehicle user is proximate.

Scheme 17: the non-transitory computer readable storage device of claim 12, wherein the currently selected light component comprises one or both of an interior vehicle light and an exterior vehicle light.

Scheme 18: the non-transitory computer-readable storage device of claim 12, wherein:

in the event that a determination is made, when executed by the processing unit, as to which of a plurality of vehicle light components should be illuminated, the vehicle light identification module determines for the currently selected light component at least one option selected from the group of options consisting of:

one of a plurality of brightness options for the light component;

one of a plurality of color options for the light component; and

one of a plurality of dimming function options for the light component.

Scheme 19: a method performed by a vehicle light system focused on a user location having a hardware-based processing unit and a non-transitory computer-readable storage device, the method comprising:

determining, by the processing unit, a vehicle user location proximate to a vehicle, the processing unit executing a user location determination module at the storage device;

determining, by the processing unit, which of a plurality of vehicle light components should be illuminated, thereby producing a currently selected light component, the processing unit executing a vehicle light identification module of the storage device based on the vehicle user location; and

sending, by the processing unit, a signal to the currently selected light component to illuminate the currently selected light component, the processing unit executing a vehicle light activation module.

Scheme 20; the method of scheme 19, wherein:

the vehicle user location is a first vehicle user location; and

the determining, determining and sending are repeated as or after the user moves from the first location to determine an updated selected light component corresponding to the determined second vehicle user location.

Drawings

Fig. 1 schematically illustrates a computer architecture according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 illustrates example memory components of the computer architecture of FIG. 1.

The figures are not necessarily to scale and some features may be exaggerated or minimized, such as to show details of particular components.

Detailed Description

Ⅰ.Introduction to the design reside in

As required, detailed embodiments of the present disclosure are disclosed herein. The disclosed embodiments are merely examples that may be embodied in various and alternative forms, and combinations thereof. As used herein, for example, "exemplary" and similar terms refer broadly to embodiments that serve as illustrations, specimens, models, or patterns.

In some instances, well-known components, systems, materials, or methods have not been described in detail in order to avoid obscuring the present disclosure. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the present disclosure.

The system and method of the present disclosure controls the provision of exterior lights around a vehicle based on the user's actions. In various embodiments, a user has a device carried by the user for determining the user's location.

Appropriate lighting is placed at strategic locations around the vehicle. The light may be disposed under the vehicle, configured and arranged to illuminate the ground and above the ground adjacent to the vehicle.

In contemplated embodiments, the lights illuminate the area under the vehicle to allow the user to more easily see under the vehicle.

In another contemplated embodiment, when the user is in close proximity to the vehicle (such as within a few feet), the interior lights of the vehicle illuminate to allow the user to see the contents of the vehicle and whether someone is in the vehicle, such as in the rear seat or trunk area.

In various embodiments, selective lighting is implemented when the vehicle senses the presence of a device (such as a key fob, a mobile phone, or a wearable device such as a smart watch) carried by the user in the vicinity.

In various embodiments, the vehicle includes sensors that determine the presence or movement of a user in the vicinity of the vehicle. In terms of sensing, the system can include one or more sensors that sense the location of the user, such as an image-based sensor (e.g., a camera) and/or a laser sensor(s).

Although the present invention is described herein primarily in connection with automobiles, the present invention is not limited in this regard. The present concepts can be extended to a wide variety of applications, such as aircraft, watercraft, manufacturing machinery or equipment, construction machinery or equipment, other vehicles, and the like, among others.

A first example system is now schematically described and illustrated in conjunction with fig. 1 and 2.

Ⅱ.In-vehicle computing architecture-FIG. 1

Turning now to the drawings, and more particularly to the first, FIG. 1 illustrates a computer-based system 100, such as an on-board computer (OBC) of a vehicle 102.

In this section, the computer-based system 100 is primarily described as an OBC. The OBC 100 can be a host computing unit of the vehicle 102, such as a host Electronic Control Unit (ECU) of the vehicle 102, or part of the host computing unit of the vehicle 102.

The OBC 100 includes a computer-readable storage medium or data storage device 104, and further includes a processing hardware unit 106 connected or connectable to the computer-readable storage device 104 by a communication link 108, such as a computer bus.

The processing hardware unit 106 can include or be multiple processors, which can include distributed processors or parallel processors in a single machine or multiple machines. The processing hardware unit can be used to support a virtual processing environment. The processing hardware units may include a state machine, an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), a Programmable Gate Array (PGA) including a field PGA or a state machine. References herein to processing hardware units that execute code or instructions to perform operations, actions, tasks, functions, steps, etc., may include such processing hardware units: the processing hardware unit directly implements the operation and/or facilitates, directs, or cooperates with another device or component to implement the operation.

In various embodiments, the data storage device is any one of volatile media, non-volatile media, removable media, and non-removable media. The term "computer-readable medium" and variants thereof, as used in the specification and claims, represents a tangible storage medium. The medium can be a device, and can be non-transitory.

In some embodiments, the storage medium includes volatile and/or nonvolatile, removable and/or non-removable media such as, for example, Random Access Memory (RAM), Read Only Memory (ROM), Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EEPROM), solid state memory or other memory technology, CD ROM, DVD, BLU-RAY or other optical disk storage, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices.

Data storage device 104 includes one or more storage modules that store computer-readable instructions that are executable by processor 106 to implement the functionality of OBC 100 as described herein.

For example, the data storage device 104 includes a team-based vehicle-machine frame module 110. In some embodiments, the data storage device 104 also includes auxiliary or support components 112, such as additional software and/or data to support the implementation of the methods of the present disclosure.

Vehicle 102 also includes lights and communication subsystem 114 for selectively illuminating lights and communicating with external devices in accordance with the present invention.

The lighting and communication subsystem 114 includes a lighting device 116. The light 116 includes one or more lights positioned around the vehicle 102.

Appropriate lighting is placed at strategic locations around the vehicle 102. The light may be disposed under the vehicle, configured and arranged to illuminate the ground and above the ground adjacent to the vehicle. In contemplated embodiments, the lights illuminate the area under the vehicle to allow the user to more easily see under the vehicle. In another contemplated embodiment, when the user is very close to the vehicle (e.g., within a few feet), the interior lights of the vehicle illuminate to allow the user to see the contents of the vehicle and whether someone is in the vehicle, such as in the rear seat or trunk area.

The lamp can comprise any suitable type of lamp, including rope lighting and a plurality of Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs). The lamps can be set to any desired color. In various embodiments, the lights are configured to change color, such as based on user preferences transmitted by the user. In contemplated embodiments, the lights are configured to deliver light at a brightness and/or color depending on other circumstances, such as the time of day or the level of ambient light.

With respect to the other components of the light and communication subsystem 114, represented by

reference numerals

118, 120, 122, 124, for example, the vehicle 102 can use them to communicate with the internet or a telephone system, such as to a remote customer support center (e.g., to a remote customer support center)

A system). Such a center has facilities for interacting with vehicle agent fleet members and their user fleet members via long-range communications, such as satellite or cellular communications. OnStar is a registered trademark of OnStar corporation, a subsidiary of general Motor company.

The light and communication components of the communication subsystem 114 can be in separate subsystems or modules.

In various embodiments, the communication aspects of the subsystem 114 include a wire-based input/output (i/o)118, at least one long-range wireless transceiver 120, and at least one short-range wireless transceiver 122. Another port 124 is shown by way of example to emphasize that the system can be configured to accommodate other types of wired or wireless communications.

In some embodiments, the remote transceiver 118 is configured to facilitate communications between the OBC 100 and a satellite and/or cellular telecommunications network. The proximity transceiver 120 is configured to facilitate proximity communications, such as communications with other vehicles (in the manner of vehicle-to-vehicle communications (V2V)) and communications with the transportation system infrastructure (V2I).

To communicate V2V, V2I, or to communicate with other additional vehicle devices such as local communication routers, the close range communication transceiver 120 may be configured to communicate via one or more close range communication protocols. Example protocols include Dedicated Short Range Communications (DSRC),

Infrared, infrared data association (IRDA), Near Field Communication (NFC), etc., or a modification thereof (WI-FI is a registered trademark of the WI-FI alliance of austin, texas; BLUETOOTH is a registered trademark of BLUETOOTH SIG, inc. of bellevue, washington).

Vehicle 102 also includes a sensor subsystem 126, sensor subsystem 126 including sensors that provide information to OBC 100, such as information indicating the presence and movement of a user in proximity to the vehicle. The vehicle 102 can be configured such that the OBC 100 communicates with the sensors of the sensor subsystem 124, or at least receives signals from the sensors of the sensor subsystem 124, via wired or close-range

wireless communication links

116, 120.

Sensor subsystem 126 includes at least one sensor configured to determine when a user is near the vehicle. In some embodiments, this functionality is accomplished using sensors that are capable of determining when a device carried by the user (such as a key fob, phone, or wearable device) is near the vehicle 102.

The sensors can include one or more sensors that sense the presence of a device carried by the user, such as sensors using passive or active Radio Frequency Identification (RFID). The device carried by the user is schematically represented in fig. 1 by reference numeral 127.

In contemplated embodiments, the vehicle includes a sensor that can collect data about a person near the vehicle 102, which the system 100 can utilize to confirm that the person is a user (e.g., a vehicle driver). The sensors can include biometric sensors, such as biometric sensors that can identify a user based on facial features, sounds, retinal features, or other features that can be determined from a relatively short distance.

Sensor subsystem 126 in various embodiments includes at least one sensor configured to determine a location of a user in proximity to vehicle 102. For sensing, the system can include one or more sensors for sensing the position of the user, such as an image-based sensor (e.g., a camera) and/or a laser sensor(s).

With further reference to light components, in contemplated embodiments, one or more light components are movable, such as by actuators controlled by a processing hardware unit, or automatically by the sensors themselves based on sensed user actions.

As specific examples of vehicle sensors, including those used to assist with the present invention and/or vehicle driving, sensor subsystem 126 can include at least one camera 128 and at least one distance sensor 130.

The schematically illustrated camera 128 can represent one or more cameras located at any suitable location of the vehicle 102, such as a camera located at a vehicle rear view mirror, adjacent or at a door handle, at a trunk lid, out from vehicle headlights and/or taillights, and so forth.

Each camera 128 is configured to sense the presence or both the presence and location of a user, and in some embodiments, user motion. Each camera can be movable, such as automatically movable by actuators controlled by the computer system 100 to track a user moving in proximity to the vehicle. The camera can be used in conjunction with other sensors, such as laser motion detection sensors.

The distance sensors 130 typically used to support driving functions, including autonomous driving functions in some modes, can include Short Range RADAR (SRR), ultrasonic sensors, long range RADARs, such as those used in autonomous or Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) systems, or light detection and ranging (LiDAR) sensors.

The sensors that sense the presence, location, and/or motion of the user may be oriented in any of a variety of directions without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the camera 128 and radar 130 may be oriented at each of the following locations or at a location selected from the following locations, for example: (i) face forward from a front center point of the vehicle 102, (ii) face rearward from a rear center point of the vehicle 102, (iii) face sideways of the vehicle from a side location of the vehicle 102, and (iv) face diagonally (e.g., between the front and front sides) of the vehicle 102.

Other example sensor subsystems 126 include an Inertial Momentum Unit (IMU)132, such as an inertial momentum unit having one or more accelerometers, and/or other such dynamic vehicle sensors 134, such as wheel sensors or sensors associated with a steering system (e.g., steering wheel) of the vehicle 102, primarily to support autonomous driving functions.

Ⅲ.Data storage and function of memory module-figure 2

FIG. 2 illustrates the data storage device 104 of FIG. 1 in more detail. The components of the data storage device 104 are now further described.

Ⅲ.A.Memory component

As provided above with respect to fig. 1, the data storage device 104 includes one or more modules 110. And the memory may also include auxiliary components 112 such as additional software and/or data to support the implementation of the methods of the present invention.

The auxiliary component 112 can include, for example, one or more user profiles. The profile can include a set of settings, defaults, and/or customizations for one or more users (e.g., drivers) of the vehicle. These configuration files and other data components are described elsewhere herein, including the following description of the method 400 of operation. The present invention can be personalized or customized in these ways.

The module 110 in various embodiments includes at least three (3)

modules

202, 204, 206, which are further described in the following sections.

In one embodiment, the module 110 includes one or more additional modules.

Some code or instructions can be part of more than one module, and the functions described herein can be implemented by execution of a processor of the corresponding more than one module.

The functionality described herein, but not explicitly associated with one of the three

modules

202, 204, 206, can be part of one of the three modules and/or part of an additional support module or modules 208. The support module(s) 208 can include, for example, a subscriber identification module and/or a passenger identification module.

Each module can be represented by any of a variety of names, such as a term or phrase indicating its function. The

modules

202, 204, 206 of the present system 100 can be referred to as, for example, a User Proximity Determination (UPD) module 202, a Vehicle Light Identification (VLI) module 204, and a Vehicle Light Activation (VLA) module 206, among others.

Fig. 2 shows additional modules by reference numeral 208 to explicitly indicate that the system 100 can include one or more additional modules.

Either module can include sub-modules, such as illustrated by

reference numerals

210, 212, 214, 216 associated with the second illustrated module 204 of fig. 2. The sub-modules are capable of performing specific operations or routines of the module function, such as those described in more detail below.

Ⅲ.A.i.User proximity determination (UDP) module 202

The processing hardware unit 104 executing the User Proximity Determination (UPD) module 202 determines that the user is near the vehicle 102 or at least determines the user's position or relative position with respect to the vehicle, e.g., adjacent to the left side, the rear left side, etc.

This operation is dynamic in order to keep up with users who may be moving around the vehicle, such as moving from adjacent to the trunk area towards the passenger side.

As mentioned, the vehicle sensor subsystem 126 in various embodiments includes at least one sensor configured to determine when a user is near the vehicle. This may be accomplished using sensors that are capable of determining when a device carried by the user (such as a key fob, a phone, or a wearable device) is near the vehicle. The sensors can include one or more sensors that sense the presence of a device carried by the user, such as sensors using passive or active Radio Frequency Identification (RFID).

In contemplated embodiments, the vehicle includes a sensor that can collect data about a person in the vicinity of the vehicle, which the system 100 can utilize to confirm that the person is a user (e.g., the vehicle driver). The sensors can include biometric sensors, for example, biometric sensors that can identify a user based on facial features, retinal features, or other features that can be determined from a short distance.

Sensor subsystem 126 in various embodiments includes at least one sensor configured to determine a location of a user in proximity to vehicle 102 without querying the user device. For sensing, the system can include one or more sensors that sense the location of the user, such as an image-based (e.g., camera) sensor and/or a laser sensor(s).

In contemplated embodiments, a user mobile device (e.g., a smartphone) is configured to send location or relative location information to a vehicle for selectively actuating vehicle lights at the vehicle. The location information from the mobile device can include, for example, GPS information, or a signal or message indicating the mobile device and thus the user's location relative to the vehicle (e.g., rear, front left, etc.).

Ⅲ.A.ii.Vehicle Light Identification (VLI) module 204

The processing hardware unit 106 executing the Vehicle Light Identification (VLI) module 204 determines which light fixture(s) or portions of light fixture(s) (e.g., multiple lengths of rope light) are illuminated based on the user's position relative to the vehicle 102.

The operation is dynamic, in that which light component illumination can change in real time from moment to moment as the user moves (such as from adjacent to the trunk area toward the passenger side).

Depending on the system settings and user location, more than one lamp can be illuminated at a time according to instructions of the processing hardware unit. For example, when a user approaches the vehicle from behind and slightly from the left or right side, one or more lights adjacent to the trunk of the vehicle (such as lights under the rear fender), along with lights illuminating the left rear area of the vehicle and the right rear area of the vehicle, can be illuminated by processing instructions of the hardware unit. When the user moves towards the driver's door, the light at the rear left can now remain illuminated together with the vehicle light at the left by processing the instructions of the hardware unit, while the lights at the rear right and rear are turned off.

Alternatively, the lights outside the rear and the lights of the rear trunk area can be illuminated in response to a vehicle computing system determining that the user is at or near the rear of the vehicle.

Alternatively, only one light at a time can be illuminated by processing the instructions of the hardware unit (such as illuminating the light closest to the user's presence location based on the user's location or user movement trajectory, or illuminating the exterior light of the apparent next location), which can be determined continuously or intermittently at relatively small time intervals (1 second, as just one example).

In a contemplated embodiment, when a user transitions from one user location area to another user location area, the light fixtures are configured and controlled by the processing hardware unit to smoothly transition from one light area to another lighting area. For example, when the user moves from the rear to the driver side, the bright light will follow the user smoothly, rather than the less stiff transition described below: a larger lamp segment for an area is suddenly lit while the lamps for the previous area (from which the user is moving) are turned off.

For example, gradual dimming can be achieved by selectively illuminating and turning off a small segment of string light, or by selectively illuminating and turning off a light element that is otherwise used to illuminate a relatively small area. In some embodiments, as mentioned, the lamp is dimmable, and dimming can be employed to help smooth the transitional effect.

As provided, in contemplated embodiments, one or more light components are movable, such as by actuators controlled by a processing hardware unit that controls the actuators using feedback from sensor(s) that sense user motion; either automatically movable by the light component based on such feedback, or automatically movable by the sensor itself based on sensed movement of the user. These are example components that facilitate smooth following of the user's lights as the user moves toward or around the vehicle 102.

As also provided, any of the

modules

202, 204, 206, 208 can include sub-modules. Each sub-module can be represented by any of a variety of names, such as by a term or phrase indicating its function. As an example, the vehicle function identification module 204 can include

sub-modules

210, 212, 214, 216.

The first sub-module 210 can be referred to as a light area sub-module. The module 210 can determine a primary area for illumination corresponding to the user location determined by the first module 202. In some embodiments, this first submodule 210 is all of the submodules required. In other embodiments, other sub-modules are needed in order to control other light effects, such as color, dimming, blinking, or strobing (as just a few examples).

For embodiments in which the brightness of the lamp is adjustable, the second sub-module 212 can be dedicated to brightness. The processing hardware unit of execution module 212 determines the amount of lighting or dimming of the lights in real time based on the user position and movement. The determination can also depend on default settings of the user profile or user preferences. For example, when there is more ambient or ambient light (such as during dawn or dusk or between dawn and dusk), the arrangement can require a brighter lamp to ensure that the lamp is still identifiable and helpful.

In contemplated embodiments, one or more lights closest to the user are indicated to be brighter than nearby lights, thereby effectively pointing to the user location.

For embodiments in which the color of the light is tunable, the third sub-module 214 may be dedicated to color. The processing hardware unit of the execution module 212 determines the color of the lamp. The determination can depend on default settings or user preferences of a user profile stored at the system 100. As with brightness, the determination of color can also depend on user preferences or default settings of the user profile. For example, when there is more ambient or ambient light (such as during or between dawn or dusk), the arrangement can require a lamp of a certain color to ensure that the lamp is still identifiable and helpful. The color can also be set by the user based on preferences or mood, such as teenagers selecting a purple or blue light.

In contemplated embodiments, the light or lights closest to the non-user are indicated to illuminate in a different color than the nearby lights, effectively pointing to the user location.

A fourth sub-module 216 is shown to explicitly indicate that any module can include one or more additional sub-modules. The add-on module can control, for example, lamp flicker or strobing, frequency of flicker or strobing, quality of change of the above-mentioned smooth-transition lamp, etc., or others.

Ⅲ.A.iii.Vehicle Light Activation (VLA) module 206

The processing hardware unit 106 executing the Vehicle Light Activation (VLA) module 206 sends a signal to the corresponding light component or components to achieve the light conditions determined using the previous module 204.

The illumination can include lights, brightness, color, flashing or strobing provided above, including frequency of flashing or strobing, and the like.

In an embodiment, this operation is also dynamic, where which light components should be indicated to be illuminated and how the illumination (e.g., brightness) can change in real time from moment to moment as the user moves, such as from adjacent to the trunk area toward the passenger side.

Ⅳ.Additional features

Many features and embodiments of the invention are described above. This section reiterates some of them, and mentions some others.

In various embodiments, the present invention creates a sense of personal safety for a user moving in proximity to or around a vehicle.

By controlling the lights to follow the user, the present invention provides light exactly where needed.

In some embodiments, the sensor is mounted at or adjacent to the lower structure of the vehicle and senses (e.g., is actuated by) a nearby user position and/or nearby user movement. In various embodiments, the implementation of such a sensor is triggered when the system detects that a device (such as a key fob or a user phone) carried (e.g., identified) by the user is in proximity.

Light can be provided by the light strip under the side, front and rear structures of the vehicle, including in the sections at these areas for finer light differentiation. Each of these lights or sections thereof can illuminate the ground under the light a few feet from the vehicle. In some contemplated embodiments, lights are disposed (e.g., positioned) at the vehicle to illuminate an area beneath the vehicle, including the ground beneath the vehicle, to allow a user to see beneath the vehicle.

In various embodiments, the light component is configured and arranged to provide a comfortable and helpful light, increasing the sense of safety, without undue attention, where the user moves to approach the vehicle and around the vehicle.

The present invention also facilitates user-vehicle relationships, or makes users trust or rely on vehicles, which can increase sales, increase loyalty to vehicles and brands, and user satisfaction and rating of vehicles.

The present invention can be implemented with much of the existing hardware used in vehicles, in some cases as is and in some cases reconfigured to achieve the goals described herein.

Sensors mounted around the exterior of the vehicle can be programmed to sense movement. Once triggered, lights mounted around the exterior area illuminate based on the user's position around the vehicle.

Ⅴ.Selective advantage

The foregoing has described many of the benefits and advantages of the present invention. This section reiterates some of them, and mentions some others. The benefits described are not exhaustive of the benefits of the invention.

The present invention improves safety, convenience, and comfort by providing light adjacent to a vehicle at a user's movement to illuminate a user path and environment visible to the user.

The present invention enhances the personal safety of the user, particularly when used at night or in darker areas, such as in an indoor parking lot.

The present invention adds value to the vehicle, including by adding convenience, comfort and safety, which can increase sales and user ratings of the vehicle.

The light components of the present invention can also provide emotional lift or comfort to the user (e.g., knowing that the user and his family and friends are safer).

The light component of the present invention can also give an impression or comfort to others (such as close friends or family), or move around the car as the user moves.

In various embodiments, the light component is configured and arranged to provide a pleasant and helpful light around and near the vehicle where the user moves to access the vehicle, increasing the sense of safety without drawing undue attention.

By illuminating only the lights where the user is moving, for example as opposed to illuminating all exterior vehicle lights, the electrical use of the lights for the present invention is limited. And the fixture life is longer because all lamps are used less than if all lamps were lit at the same time.

Ⅵ.Conclusion

Various embodiments of the present disclosure are disclosed herein. The disclosed embodiments are merely examples that may be embodied in various and alternative forms, and combinations thereof.

The above-described embodiments are merely illustrative of implementations set forth for a clear understanding of the principles of the disclosure.

Variations, modifications, and combinations may be made to the above-described embodiments without departing from the scope of the claims. All such variations, modifications, and combinations are included herein within the scope of this disclosure and the appended claims.

Claims

1. A vehicle light system focused on a user location, comprising:

a hardware-based processing unit; and

a non-transitory computer-readable storage device, comprising:

a user location determination module that, when executed by the processing unit, determines a vehicle user location proximate to the vehicle, wherein the user location determination module is configured to receive a signal from a user-carried device that is a key fob, a user-wearable device, or other user mobile communication device when determining the vehicle user location proximate to the vehicle;

a vehicle light identification module that, when executed by the processing unit, determines which of a plurality of vehicle light components should be illuminated based on the vehicle user location, thereby producing a currently selected light component, wherein the currently selected light component includes an interior vehicle light and an exterior vehicle light, the exterior vehicle light being disposed beneath the vehicle, configured and arranged to illuminate the ground and above the ground adjacent to the vehicle; and

a vehicle light activation module configured to, when executed by the processing unit, send a signal to the currently selected light component to illuminate the currently selected light component,

wherein the vehicle user is a person and the vehicle light system is applied when the vehicle is in a parked state and turned off.

2. The user location focused vehicle light system of claim 1 comprising the plurality of vehicle light components configured to be selectively activated in response to the signal from a processor executing the vehicle light activation module.

3. The vehicle light system focused on user location of claim 1, comprising a user proximity sensor configured and arranged at a vehicle for sensing the presence of a vehicle user in proximity to the vehicle, wherein the processing unit executes the user location determination module for determining a vehicle user location in proximity to a vehicle by implementing the processing unit using or in response to an output from the user proximity sensor.

4. The user location focused vehicle light system of claim 1 comprising a user location sensor configured and arranged at the vehicle to sense a location of a vehicle user relative to the vehicle, wherein the user location determination module is implemented using an output of the user location sensor, the user location determination module executing the processing unit to determine a vehicle user location proximate to the vehicle.

5. A vehicle light system focused on a user location as recited in claim 1 wherein:

the vehicle user location is a first vehicle user location; and

6. The vehicle light system focused on the user location of claim 1, wherein the user location determination module is configured to receive a signal from a device carried by the user when a proximity sensor is used to determine that the user is near the vehicle.

7. The vehicle light system focused on user location of claim 1, wherein the non-transitory computer readable storage device comprises:

8. A vehicle light system focusing on user location as claimed in claim 1, wherein in the event that the determination of which of a plurality of vehicle light components should be illuminated is performed by the processing unit, the vehicle light identification module determines for the currently selected light component at least one option selected from the group of options consisting of:

one of a plurality of brightness options for the light component;

one of a plurality of color options for the light component; and

one of a plurality of dimming function options for the light component.

9. A non-transitory computer readable storage device for use at a vehicle light system focused on a user location, comprising:

a user location determination module that, when executed by a processing unit, determines a vehicle user location proximate to a vehicle, wherein the user location determination module is configured to receive a signal from a user-carried device that is a key fob, a user-wearable device, or other user mobile communication device when determining the vehicle user location proximate to the vehicle;

10. The non-transitory computer-readable storage device of claim 9, wherein:

the vehicle user location is a first vehicle user location; and

11. The non-transitory computer-readable storage device of claim 9, wherein the user location determination module is configured to receive a signal from a device carried by a user when a proximity sensor is used to determine that the user is proximate to the vehicle.

12. The non-transitory computer-readable storage device of claim 9, comprising:

13. The non-transitory computer-readable storage device of claim 9, wherein:

one of a plurality of brightness options for the light component;

one of a plurality of color options for the light component; and

one of a plurality of dimming function options for the light component.

14. A method implemented by the user location focused vehicle light system of any of claims 1-8, wherein the user location focused vehicle light system has a hardware based processing unit and a non-transitory computer readable storage device, the method comprising:

determining, by the processing unit, a vehicle user location proximate to a vehicle executing a user location determination module at the storage device;

based on the vehicle user location, executing, by the processing unit, a vehicle light identification module of the memory device to determine which of a plurality of vehicle light components should be illuminated, thereby producing a currently selected light component; and

executing, by the processing unit, a vehicle light activation module to send a signal to the currently selected light component to illuminate the currently selected light component.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein:

the vehicle user location is a first vehicle user location; and

upon or after the user moves from the first vehicle user location, performing the following process to determine an updated selected light component corresponding to the determined second vehicle user location:

determining, by the processing unit executing a user location determination module at the storage device, the second vehicle user location proximate to a vehicle;

based on the second vehicle user location, executing, by the processing unit, a vehicle light identification module of the memory device to determine which of a plurality of vehicle light components should be illuminated, thereby producing a currently selected light component; and